• a social player seeking to learn more,
• or play against your computer and want to test your wits against human opponents,
• or are being invited to the club by a friend

You might soon ask, Why does everybody play with a clock? or What on earth is a Sicilian Dragon and why would I want one? or even Why do I seem to lose so quickly?

Club Chess is quite different from social games between friends, and for newcomers it can be a daunting experience. It is common for some people to be put off after the first night, thinking that the standard of play is too high or is somehow beyond you. But for anybody who is willing to commit half-a-dozen club nights, club play will soon become less myterious and your standard of play will rise rapidly.

The purpose of this guide is to demystify your chess club experience. Take your time to browse through these few pages and feel free to add your comments. Better still come along on club nights and voice your comments there.

1. Club membership
2. Playing in the Chess Club
3. Competitive Chess
4. Chess Ratings, Etiquette and fair Play
5. Chess Notation
6. Getting your own Books and Equipment
7. Following Chess in the Media